Empathy is more than just a moral virtue taught for the function of keeping peace at the playground as a child. When mastered, empathy can be one of the most beneficial, self-serving traits regardless of the situation in discussion. Are you looking for a better professional life? Tired of arguing with your significant other? Always feeling frustrated with the actions of those around you? When this skill is mastered, it will consistently contribute to your happiness levels through its ability to mitigate unfavourable situations, while fostering positive vibes.

1. Relationships

Whether it be your spouse, kids, friends, or family, we all run into times when those around us don’t meet our expectations and vice versa. The key to avoiding this is simply to understand what these expectations are so that you will be able to ensure that your actions align. If you know what the expectations of your child/wife/parents are, then you will know how to always make them happy. Of course, this does not mean change yourself to fit the mould of those around you, rather, understand what this mould consists of so you don’t unintentionally disappoint them through preventable mistakes.

2. Fewer Arguments

The root of 99.99% of arguments is an inability to empathize. Plain and simple. We always believe that with enough shouting, the other person will eventually understand where we are coming from and everything will be resolved, but this is rarely the case. You do not have the power to force them to change their outlook, but you do have the power to change your outlook, and consequently, how to speak in a way that will hopefully result in their eyes being opened. This all starts with the ability to see the root of the other person’s frustration, as this will allow us to see how we are stepping on their toes to evoke this emotional reaction.

3. Inner Peace

As previously mentioned, we can’t directly alter how others act and speak, but we can change how we view these actions and words. Understand that actions are always justified, even if only to that one person in one specific point in time, so until you understand that perspective, you will not be able to say that you wouldn’t have done the same thing in that given point and time. Once you accept this, it will be much easier to liberate yourself from this frustration, disappointment, and harmful negative energy that may stem from other people’s actions.

Empathy is a complex tool that takes dedicated practice to master, but if mastering it can lead to better relationships, fewer and less toxic arguments, and a greater sense of inner peace, then the resulting boost in happiness is undoubtedly worth it!

It is an area a lot of people struggle with, particularly when they’re trying to empathise with someone who has a very different outlook on life. I do feel like there would be less political turmoil if both sides just took the time to listen to the other side first.

I am constantly amazed at how many problems in life come from a lack of empathy, and how many problems dissolve when you let your guard down, show a little vulnerability, and put yourself in the other person’s shoes. Nice post, thanks for writing this.